My name is Indigo Cornelison and I am honored to serve as an AmeriCorps VISTA for 55,000 Degrees for the 2015-2016 year.​Random facts about me:

I am 23 years old

Born and raised in Louisville, KY

I like to travel (I’ve been to Greece, Italy, Turkey, Dominican Republic, Bahamas, Jamaica, and a ton of states within the U.S.)

Summer is my favorite season. I love to swim!

My favorite color isn’t Indigo. It’s purple—huge difference.

Drake is my favorite rapper, Lauryn Hill is my favorite singer.

In a perfect world, I’d be a professional taste tester because I love to eat!

For my year of service, I am working with 55,000 Degrees as their Outreach Coordinator. Upon accepting this position, I had no idea what to expect, but in this short time I can honestly say it’s been nothing short of amazing. From being able to network and make great connections, to enhancing professional skills that will be useful in all of my future endeavors, I am more than excited for the experiences to come!

I recently graduated from the University of Kentucky (go CATS!) in May of 2015 with my Bachelors of Science in Accounting. As an undergraduate student, it was always my intention to enroll in a graduate program immediately following my attendance at UK, but oh how things changed. Though serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA wasn’t my original plan, so far it’s proven to be the best plan for me. I hope to soon get my master’s degree in Higher Education or Student Affairs, so working to increase education attainment is something that I am truly passionate about.

As the 55k Outreach Coordinator I’ve had the opportunity to meet a lot of important figures in the Louisville community in regards to higher education and education attainment including Mayor Greg Fischer and the list most certainly goes on. In addition to meeting these important figures, I’ve also had many opportunities to speak with students about college which is something that I hope to continue to do in the future. As a VISTA, I have gotten the opportunity to get real life experience in the higher education field which is something that will stand out as I apply to graduate school as well as help me to be a better professional in the future.

All in all, I am very pleased with my experience thus far. One of my favorite quotes of all time is:

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”-Vince Lombardi

With that being said, I believe that you should always put your best foot forward and give everything your best effort. Though being a VISTA wasn’t my original plan, I plan to make the best of this experience and take on every opportunity thrown my way. I hope you found this somewhat insightful. :)

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The Cradle to Career VISTA Blog consists of posts from members past and present and those that work with them. ​Any opinions expressed on “The Cradle to Career VISTA Blog”, except as specifically noted, are those of the individual commenter and do not necessarily represent the views, opinions, or policies of AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) program or the Corporation for National and Community Service.